General Description
Pygeum is an evergreen native to the higher elevations (above 3,000
feet) of central and southern Africa. Growing up to 150 feet in
height, pygeum has dark-brown to gray bark, oblong, dull-green leaves,
and white or cream-colored flowers. The tree bears a small, round
fruit, which resembles a cherry when ripe. The bark of the tree
is used for medicinal purposes.
Health applications
History and traditional use
For several centuries, native African tribes have used a tea made
from powdered pygeum bark to treat urinary disorders. European interest
in the herb began as early as the 1700s. In recent years, pygeum
has gained popularity throughout Europe and the United States as
an herbal treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Chemical composition
The primary active components in pygeum bark are fat-soluble compounds,
which include terpenes, sterols (including beta-sitosterol), and
ferulic acid esters. Pygeum extracts are commonly standardized
to 13% sterol concentration for consistent potency.
Pygeum and the prostate
Pygeum is used widely as a therapeutic herb for men with benign
prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While pygeum does not appear to affect
prostate volume, numerous clinical trials have demonstrated that
pygeum extract can effectively improve urinary symptoms in men
with BPH.1-5
Dosage/toxicity
The usual recommendation is 100 mg of standardized (13% sterols)
pygeum extract per day, divided into two 50 mg doses. Pygeum is
generally well tolerated at this dosage. Side effects, which have
been reported by a small percentage of users, include gastrointestinal
complaints. |
